Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara has appointed a new Resort Manager, Michael Mestraud. Most recently, he comes from Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, where he served on the opening team as Resort Manager for the last four years. A native of Nancy, France, who graduated with honours from from École Hôtelière de Lausanne in Switzerland, Mestraud has previously held upper management positions at other Four Seasons hotels, including the George V in Paris, Provence and Chicago.

Overseeing all aspects of daily operations at Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, Michael is consumed with providing memorable experiences for guests. He brings an extensive culinary background to the role, and makes it his top priority to connect with guests and staff, which allows him to continuously determine new ways to improve their experiences. But it’s his boundless energy and positive attitude that he considers the keys to his success. “I’m always looking at the positives, and I lead with strong values on a daily basis, without trying to force it. It just comes naturally,” says Mestraud.

Though Michael has travelled the world over, he enjoys living near the ocean, the accessibility of a small coastal town, and the active, healthy lifestyle that Santa Barbara affords. “I like to say I’ve traded one paradise for another,” he says. “I love Santa Barbara – the non-stop blue skies, the weather and the architecture – and there is just something so very special and soulful about this place that touches me deeply.” He looks forward to exploring his new home along with his wife and three-year-old twin daughters.